Classification

In science we have been learning about Utah's biomes.  We have enjoyed looking at the plants and animals that are found within the three biomes in our state.  One way we've learned more about being a scientist is how to classify things.  We learned how we have to look at the plant/animals characteristics to determine their species. 

One day in class we worked in groups to classify random objects.  We had fun looking at the characteristics of each set of objects and trying to figure out what they had in common and what was different.  We had sets of animals . . . 

Random shapes . . . 

Buttons . . . 

Combs . . . 

Letters . . . (this one was a little tricky!)

Once the students had their objects grouped they had to create a dichotomous key that showed how they broke it up.  We had looked at many keys and saw that this was one way scientists were able to identify names of types of plants and animals.  

These are two examples of work.  They were in the middle of working on their objects when I took a pictures so as you can see, they weren't finished yet.  The students loved realizing how fun it is to be a scientist!!!

***Challenge:  Find 10 or more items at home and create a dichotomous key for them.  Bring your key to school for extra credit!